Purpleheart (Peltogyne purpurea) Hardwood

Yes — freshly cut Purpleheart is grayish-brown but turns a vibrant, deep purple within hours to days of exposure to light and air. This photochemical reaction is unique among commercial hardwoods. Over years, the purple darkens to a deep eggplant tone.

Janka hardness of 2,520 lbf — extremely hard. It's harder than Hickory (1,820), White Oak (1,350), and most domestic species. For reference, Ipe is 3,680 lbf. Purpleheart's hardness makes it exceptional for high-wear applications.

The color evolves over time. Freshly exposed surfaces are bright purple, which gradually darkens to a deep eggplant-purple with UV exposure over months to years. UV-protective finishes slow this process. Light sanding can temporarily restore brighter purple tones.

Yes — Purpleheart has excellent natural resistance to rot, decay, and insects without chemical treatment. It's rated as very durable and has been used in marine and exterior applications for centuries.

Yes. At 2,520 Janka, it's harder than virtually any domestic flooring species. Purpleheart is used for dramatic full floors or, more commonly, as accent borders and inlays in lighter hardwood floors.

Moderately expensive — typically $8-14 per board foot for 4/4 lumber. The unique color and extreme hardness command a premium over common domestic species, but it's less expensive than highly figured exotic woods.

Yes. The extreme hardness (2,520 Janka) means tools dull quickly, pre-drilling is mandatory, and slower feed rates are necessary. The wood can also cause allergic reactions in some people — proper dust protection is important.

Clear finishes that include UV protection best preserve the purple color. Danish oil, tung oil, or clear polyurethane with UV inhibitors are good choices. Avoid heat-based finishing methods which can temporarily turn the purple brownish.